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Cardinal Resource Strategy was founded to provide complex R1 universities, multi-campus systems, and mature nonprofits with integrated data, quantitative forecasting, and organizational modernization.
Solving high-stakes institutional challenges requires more than generic consulting; it requires an architecture built on a deep understanding of academic and nonprofit operations. Cardinal specializes in architecting bespoke dynamic models that untangle and unite historically siloed data—connecting financial projections with staffing, faculty lines, service provision, instruction, enrollment, research, and space planning.
We don't just deliver data; we translate it into high-level business cases, interactive dashboards, and strategic presentations designed specifically for governing boards, legislative committees, and executive leadership teams. Whether designing long-range budget allocation frameworks or restructuring academic shared-service models, Cardinal aligns operational mechanics with core missions and executive strategy.
Leadership
Leadership
Led by Founder and Principal Elizabeth D. Bakanic, the firm brings two decades of leadership and analytical experience in top tier university and public administration. Prior to launching the practice, Elizabeth served as Vice Provost for Planning, Analysis, and Resource Management at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, providing strategic oversight and resource planning across the academic enterprise.
Her approach to resource management is informed by senior administrative roles across premier public institutions, previously serving as Associate Provost for Finance and the Associate Dean of Finance and Budget for UNC’s College of Arts & Sciences. Her background also includes leading systemwide institutional research and predictive financial modeling for the University of California System's 10 campuses and 5 medical centers, as well as planning central finance strategy at UC Berkeley. Before serving in higher education, Elizabeth was a central player in New Jersey budgeting and auditing, working closely with the state Budget Director, Treasurer, Comptroller, and Department leadership.
Having operated from these chairs, Elizabeth knows firsthand that strategy and operational realities are deeply intertwined. More importantly, she is versed in the unique business models of higher education and public entities.
Elizabeth holds a Master of Public Affairs from Princeton University's School of Public and International Affairs, and a Bachelor of Arts, Summa Cum Laude, from the University of South Carolina Honors College
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